The Key Room No. 72

This hidden-away speakeasy is good news for the Ari cocktail scene.

The buzz: Ari is stepping up its cocktail game with this dramatic new neighborhood speakeasy hidden inside the boutique Josh Hotel.

The decor: To gain access the bar, you have to ask for a keycard at the front desk as if checking in to the hotel. Once inside, you’ll find a tiny 1920s-style space painted in deep red and surrounded by mirrors. Two small screens play host to quirky movies like Amelie, adding to the cozy feel.

The drinks: Hidden away in this secret room, The Key’s cocktails reveal stories of owner Mr. Josh’s travels. If you think Ari cocktails all simple and easy-drinking, think again, as the signature cocktails here are (very) spirit-forward. If you’ve had a long, hard day, we suggest you start with the punchy Sazerac (B420), which combines Hennessy VS, Bulleit Rye whiskey, Angostura bitters, Peychaud’s bitters, a touch of syrup and a final spritz of absinthe—all alcohol, basically. The Marilyn 1950s offers slightly easier drinking, with vodka, Malibu, lime juice, honey syrup, cinnamon syrup, grapefruit bitters and smoked cinnamon (B380). The El Presidente Twist (B380) makes the perfect after dinner drink, with Diplomatico rum, dry vermouth and a nice aroma of thyme.

The crowd: Sophisticated professionals who enjoy the finer things in life.

Why we’d come back: Gone are Ari’s wishy-washy cocktail days—this place joins the ranks of Frank Mansion to become the start of something special for the cocktail scene outside of Sukhumvit.